"In times of need"

Easter message: King Charles calls for help

Buckingham Palace published a photo of King Charles.(Bild: Buckingham Palace)

Britain's King Charles III (75) has reminded people of the importance of helping one another on the occasion of the upcoming Easter celebrations. The monarch sent an audio message to the traditional Royal Maundy service on Maundy Thursday, but was not due to attend in person due to his cancer. Charles' daughter-in-law Princess Kate (42) is also currently being treated for cancer.

Jesus was an example of "how we should serve others and care for each other", said Charles. He also recalled how much they as a nation need and benefit from those "who extend their hand of friendship to us, especially in times of need".

King not currently making any major appearances
The audio message was recorded at Buckingham Palace. A photo showed Charles sitting at a desk in a blue suit, with a microphone and flowers blooming in front of him. Charles is currently not making any major public appearances due to his illness.

To kick off the Easter celebrations, the monarch distributes special coins on Maundy Thursday. According to the palace, the centuries-old tradition is reminiscent of the washing of the apostles' feet by Jesus at the Last Supper. Charles, who has been King for a year and a half, distributed the coins in York last year. His wife Queen Camilla (76) was to represent him at this year's ceremony in Worcester.